According to UNCTAD, global trade surpassed $35 trillion in 2025, driven by goods and services, but maritime transport remains fragile in the face of costs and geopolitical tensions.
In 2025, global trade reached a record level, with flows estimated at over $35 trillion, up about 7% compared to 2024. Growth was fueled by both goods (+$1.5 trillion) and services (+$750 billion). According to UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development), this increase reflects a sustained recovery in traded volumes, despite a slowdown in global economic growth, estimated at 2.6%, and ongoing risks from financial market volatility and geopolitical tensions.
The report highlights that trade growth is increasingly driven by developing countries, particularly in Asia, while South-South trade continues to strengthen, reducing dependence on traditional developed markets. Prices of traded goods are expected to stabilize, leaving volumes as the main growth driver. UNCTAD also emphasizes the need for international cooperation to prevent economic fragmentation, strengthen supply chains, and support trade as a driver of development.
Maritime transport, which accounts for more than 80% of global trade by volume, is experiencing a notable slowdown: volumes transported are expected to grow by only 0.5% in 2025. This stagnation is due to rerouted shipping lanes to avoid risky areas, trade tensions, and high port costs, which lead to volatile freight rates and pressure on carrier profitability. The most vulnerable countries—dependent on imports and with limited port infrastructure—are particularly exposed.
UNCTAD stresses the importance of modernizing fleets, investing in port infrastructure, and accelerating the transition to cleaner fuels to ensure the resilience of maritime transport and its ability to support global trade.
